Tommy Lloyd stays at Arizona with contract extension

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 02: Head coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines and head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats talk during an interview for Final Four Media Day at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 02, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) | NCAA Photos via Getty Images That sound you hear is the door slamming on the Tommy Lloyd to UNC rumors. After weeks of playing coy, Lloyd made it official today saying he is staying at Arizona for less money (North Carolina apparently offered a top-two coaching contract) while also gaining more control.

One of the sticking points for Lloyd appeared to be his relationship with the current Wildcats AD, Desireé Reed-Francois. Lloyd will now report directly to Arizona president Suresh Garimella instead. So, with Lloyd out of the picture where does that leave the Tar Heels?

Dusty May immediately jumps to the top of the wish list, though the monetary battle with Michigan will be much greater. However, despite his love for Ann Arbor, May has refused to comment on any coaching searches. In other words, he still hasn’t said no.

Outside of May, the other name that keeps popping up is Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan. Donovan has made it clear that he will not consider any job before the NBA season is over, which is April 12. If he becomes the favorite, expect an even longer wait.